If you’re a frequent traveler, you likely have your pre-flight documents conveniently organized. After all, it’s easy: grab your passport for international flights and use your standard driver’s license to successfully board domestic flights. Beginning in a year, though, altered travel legislation will require all American travelers on domestic flights to present a REAL ID prior to boarding.
Flickr/sean hobson Take a peek at your driver’s license: does it feature a star at the top? If not, you’re likely not in possession of a REAL ID, and this could become a problem as you book travel plans from October 1st, 2020 onward.
Flickr/NCdot The REAL ID Act was initially passed in 2005 to bolster security measures throughout American airports, and the deadline for travelers to make the switch is quickly approaching. When the new policy takes full effect, all ticket holders must present a REAL ID or alternative document, such as a passport, in order to board even domestic flights.
Flickr/NCdot So, how does one go about securing a REAL ID? The process is simple but vital for those who want to avoid being turned away at the check-in counter. Visit your local DMV and bring along a birth certificate or green card, a Social Security card, and two items of documentation to confirm your home address.
Flickr/Governor Tom Wolf Presently, it’s estimated that 3 out of 4 Americans have yet to obtain a REAL ID, and these staggering statistics could translate into real-life drama at airports nationwide if citizens fail to upgrade.
Do you have a REAL ID? What was the process like for you? Be sure to share your experiences and suggestions for fellow travelers by dropping us a line in the comment section below!
Flickr/sean hobson
Take a peek at your driver’s license: does it feature a star at the top? If not, you’re likely not in possession of a REAL ID, and this could become a problem as you book travel plans from October 1st, 2020 onward.
Flickr/NCdot
The REAL ID Act was initially passed in 2005 to bolster security measures throughout American airports, and the deadline for travelers to make the switch is quickly approaching. When the new policy takes full effect, all ticket holders must present a REAL ID or alternative document, such as a passport, in order to board even domestic flights.
So, how does one go about securing a REAL ID? The process is simple but vital for those who want to avoid being turned away at the check-in counter. Visit your local DMV and bring along a birth certificate or green card, a Social Security card, and two items of documentation to confirm your home address.
Flickr/Governor Tom Wolf
Presently, it’s estimated that 3 out of 4 Americans have yet to obtain a REAL ID, and these staggering statistics could translate into real-life drama at airports nationwide if citizens fail to upgrade.
Interested in reading about another travel upgrade that will affect airport-goers throughout the United States? Click here to check out our previous piece.
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